NFL may schedule an extra game on Thanksgiving Eve

A person familiar with the league told USA TODAY Sports the NFL is considering playing a game on Thanksgiving Eve, which would create a five-game slate around Thanksgiving; the league's full regular-season schedule is expected in May.

The NFL is weighing the possibility of adding a game on Thanksgiving Eve, according to a person familiar with the league's thinking who spoke to USA TODAY Sports. The source was granted anonymity because this year's schedule has not been finalized. If approved, the change would expand the holiday window and create a five-game slate around Thanksgiving. The league has already broadened its broadcast calendar in recent years with a prime-time Thanksgiving slot added since 2006 and a Black Friday game on Amazon Prime beginning in 2023. Known details: - The report cites an anonymous person familiar with the league's plans who spoke to USA TODAY Sports. - A Thanksgiving Eve game would make five games scheduled around Thanksgiving. - Since 2006 the NFL has run a Thanksgiving tripleheader with an added prime-time game following the Lions and Cowboys contests. - Amazon Prime introduced an additional Black Friday game in 2023. - Rumors of an 18th regular-season game have circulated, though Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFL Players Association representatives have previously downplayed adding another week. - The NFL's official regular-season schedule is expected to be released in May. Summary: This proposal would broaden the NFL's holiday broadcast offerings and provide another single-game window for media partners. The league's official season schedule, which will confirm whether the Thanksgiving Eve game is included, is expected in May.